Firefighters have issued a reminder of their candle and oil burner safety advice following a fire at a terraced house on Chudleigh Road in Lewisham.
Most of a loft conversion was damaged by the fire. Three people left the building before the Brigade arrived. There are no reports of any injuries.
Control Officers took the first of two calls at 1907 and mobilised four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Lewisham, Forest Hill, Lee Green and New Cross fire stations to the scene.
The fire is believed to have been accidental, caused by an oil lamp left unattended.
How to use candles and incense safely
- Never leave candles, incense sticks and oil burners unattended - this includes 'Diya lamps'' often used for worship and religious festivals.
- Make sure you put them out when you leave the room and especially before bed.
- Keep them in heat-resistant holders placed on a stable surface.
- Don't put them close to anything that can catch fire, such as curtains, papers, furniture, and clothes.
- To avoid accidents keep candles and all naked flames (including matches and lighters) out of the reach of children and pets.
- Tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.
